Backpacking in Corfu

Going to Corfu on a backpacking holiday is a great way to see the island in your own way and get a real taste for traditional Corfu. As one of the safest places to go in Europe, with one of the lowest crime rates for holiday destinations, it is good to know that the locals here have a reputation for being friendly and honest. The choice of hostels for backpackers in Corfu is excellent, with a number of them almost like hotel resorts, considering the great prices and the number of guests accommodated. Hostel prices start at around 15 Euros per p/p p/n and will include a generous breakfast (and sometimes dinner) for that price. Backpackers are made to feel very welcome on Corfu, with one particular hostel (the Pink Palace) meeting you as you arrive on the island and immediately sedating you with a shot of pink liquor!

Beach in Corfu

Whether you are looking for a tranquil and private stretch of sandy beach, or a lively spot where you can indulge in some superb water-sports, a beach holiday in Corfu certainly delivers. Corfu’s beaches are absolutely splendid, with beautiful and clean sandy stretches that wend their way around the island’s coastline. Wherever you are on Corfu, you are never far from the Ionian Sea, and therefore from some of the loveliest beaches in the Mediterranean. Corfu is famous for its beaches, with seaside locations such as Mirtoitissa Beach, a popular naturist destination, with its soft sand and secluded setting. If you are looking for a beach holiday in Corfu that will keep the whole family happy, you will also be pleased to hear that there is a wide range of water-sports available on the island; from windsurfing, to banana boating, to jet skiing and water skiing. Corfu is also a little cooler than Greece’s other islands as it is further north, so it is an excellent choice for tourists not wanting a beach holiday where they will have to sizzle without any respite from the heat. If you are looking for a quiet beach holiday in Corfu, try Ermones, Avlavi or Agnos beach; these are pretty and secluded stretches where it is easy to relax. Or, if you are after some liveliness and activity, Acharavi and Sidari beaches are great choices and have some exciting activities for both adults and children.

Camping in Corfu

With accommodation being relatively cheap on Corfu, camping is not actually a big tourist attraction here. Nevertheless, there are a couple of lovely campsites that offer excellent facilities to campers, located in a variety of resorts around the island. The standard amenities you should expect if you are camping in Corfu are clean water, clean lavatories, shower and laundry facilities. The cost of camping in Corfu makes it the cheapest accommodation choice by far; two adults with a car/caravan should expect to pay under 20 Euros a night at a campsite. Many of them are located in beautiful surroundings; either next to one of Corfu’s stunning sandy beaches, or within the lush green countryside. There are not many campsites on Corfu, we therefore recommend the Camping Village Dionysus situated near Corfu Town, and a short distance from the international airport. Or Karoussades Camping Village which offers a free pick up from the port (if you arrive by ferry) and is situated just a 5 minute drive from the beach within a beautiful Corfiot olive grove.

City Breaks in Corfu

If it’s a cultural city break in the sun you’re after, Corfu is the perfect destination. Corfu’s capital, Corfu Town, is an architecturally stunning town with a great deal of interesting history behind it. It seems that over the years, Corfu was occupied by almost everyone – the British, Romans, the French, the Italians, the Goths and more! Throw in a little Greek mythology and you realise Corfu Town is oozing with a mishmash of culture and ancient civilisations. You’ll find the Italian influence in the elegant Venetian architecture, and the British influence in the cricket you’ll see played on the famous Esplanade green in the centre of the town. A city break in this lovely town will have you weaving your way through twisting narrow streets which break open into colourful squares and courtyards. Take your time to browse the many market stalls and enjoy some of the best cuisine in Greece in Corfu Town’s many traditional tavernas. There are a variety of hotels to stay in during your city break to suit a range of budgets. Either choose your accommodation on the outskirts of the town where you can expect to experience the panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, or get yourself a pretty hotel room in the centre of Corfu Town and enjoy the buzz and vibrancy of this culturally rich Ionian city.

Cruises in Corfu

There are some lovely day-cruises, night-cruises and mini-cruises offered to tourists staying in Corfu. With such a variety of islands nearby, each with their own rich history, taking a trip to the other Ionian islands can be an exciting excursion. From Corfu Town you can create your own itinerary and cruise to as many islands as you wish. Soak in some ancient Greek mythology on a cruise to Parga Paxos, situated just south of Corfu. Or sail further south to Kefalonia and enjoy a walk through the island’s idyllic Grecian streets and try some Kefalonian cuisine. You can also experience the beauty of the Grecian mainland on a cruise to see where the film ‘Blue Lagoon’ was filmed. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, take a trip to Albania and experience some stunning Roman architecture. Other islands you might like to cruise to include, Himare Albania (just next to Albania’s port), Igoumenitsa (part of mainland Epirus), Ithika (made famous by poet, Homer, and popular in Greek mythology), Lefkada (4th largest Ionian island), Parga (ancient town part of mainland Epirus), and Plataria (very attractive port village). Prices for cruises differ depending on your exact itinerary, however, there are a number of independent companies offering these types of cruises, and this keeps the prices nicely competitive.

Culture and Arts in Corfu

If you’re looking for culture, history, tradition and art on your holiday in Corfu, Corfu Town once again has to be a prime destination. With architecture from Venetian elegance to Gothic drama, you will feel very much immersed in the past of this beautiful and ancient island. You can also indulge your cultural side with some fascinating museums that house superb exhibits of art and sculpture from the ancient worlds. The archaeological museum is a definite must for anyone looking to explore the mysticism of Greece’s past; browse the ancient exhibits and artefacts that include bronze Roman statues, funeral offerings and art preserved beautifully from the 6th century BC. Also take time to visit the rather unusual museum of Asian art if you want a splash of culture and history from your holiday in Corfu. The works of art featured here were donated by ambassador Gregorios Manos, and later added to by N. Hatzivassiliou and Ch. Hiotakis. Many of the exhibits are famous and very well preserved and have travelled as far afield as Japan, Nepal, Tibet and Thailand. The stunning displays include Samurai weapons and armour, sculptures, Chinese porcelain and fine bone china.

Disabled Needs in Corfu

Corfu has a good selection of villas, hotel and apartments with disabled facilities, many of which are built on the beach, or very close to it. The larger resorts have hotels and B&Bs that offer helpful features such as ground floor rooms, specially adapted bathrooms and wider access for wheelchairs. When it comes to sightseeing, you will find the museums in Corfu Town generally accommodate handicapped visitors. However, some of the older buildings, such as the Old Fort only offer partial disabled access. Disabled guests should find it easy getting around Corfu’s towns, with the roads generally in good condition for wheelchair use.

Family Holiday in Corfu

Whether you want to simply relax on the beach while the kids play in the safe waters of the Ionian Sea, or if you fancy a day of family fun at an Aquapark, Corfu is a great destination for a family holiday. There are a number of beaches to choose from; try a quiet and tranquil sandy retreat, or a lively and sport-orientated tourist spot. Corfu caters for a wide range of children’s activities, including banana boating and doughnutting. You will also be pleased to hear that Corfu has the lowest crime rate in Europe and families should feel exceptionally safe on the island. If you want to treat the kids to a bit of culture and soak up some history for yourself, the stunning Old Fort in Corfu Town, or the mysterious Sissi’s Palace, are bound to capture the imagination. The Greek mythology that is prevalent all over the island is always highly fascinating for children, and you can be sure that they will love the ancient architecture and Corfiot culture. Greek food is mainly uncontroversial and you will no doubt find something on the menus to suit everyone’s taste. Many of the hotels on the island are very family-orientated, with childen’s activities and entertainment provided. The swimming pools are generally of an excellent standard, and you will no doubt find a day at the Aquapark will make everyone sleep extra well.

Honeymoon in Corfu

Corfu makes an excellent honeymoon destination; with its beautiful weather and lush green landscape, it is the perfect retreat for couples looking for a romantic break. The coastline of the island is covered in soft sandy beaches, many of which have secluded coves, sheltered by rocky hills, where you can enjoy some peace and seclusion. There are some traditional and pretty villages to visit all over Corfu which will give you a taste of its historic past. Boat trips around the island are also extremely popular and you can enjoy a day trip to the surrounding Ionian islands. Corfu Town itself is also considered a romantic destination, with its narrow winding streets and pretty architecture and courtyards. Enjoy the intimacy of a cosy Corfiot taverna where you can sample some delicious Greek cuisine, or inject some culture into your getaway with an amble around some of the town’s unusual museums. For couples who want to break away from the traditional beach/sightseeing honeymoon, you will also find a wide range of water sports available around the island. Or, if you fancy a night on the town, take a trip to vibrant Sidari where there are a great range of clubs and bars.

Naturism in Corfu

Technically speaking, nudity is not permitted on Corfu’s beaches, however, the authorities turn a blind eye to it – so much so that the beach of Mirtoitissa is one of the most popular naturist beaches in Europe! The beach itself is the cleanest in Corfu and is very much secluded and sheltered from civilisation, with high cliffs creating a picturesque backdrop. Access to the beach only became possible in the 1970s when a steep and rocky cliff road was created. Mirtoitissa is certainly not an exclusively naturist beach, however, and you will tend to find nudist sunbathers down the left side of the beach, sea-facing and amongst the clothed bathers as well. If you are looking for a beautiful naturist holiday in Corfu, Mirtoitissa Beach is a fantastic choice and has remained a popular destination for over 30 years.

Party Holiday - Singles Life in Corfu

It may not be as famous as some Grecian destinations but Corfu certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to a night out. Sidari is one of the best places to go; it is an energetic town with a great party atmosphere. You will find a good number of clubs and bars stretched out in the town and along the sea front. With friendly locals and drinks that are well-priced for a European destination, you can be sure that a night on the town will be one to remember. Kavos is also a huge party destination in Corfu – you’ll find an Ibiza-esque feel to this lively and wild resort. Corfu Town is also a good place to go for a night out, although the older areas do not have clubs or bars. Look for cosy little bars down discreet alleyways and find some hidden gems amongst the narrow streets. Corfu can certainly cater for a fun night out and has a great selection of venues to choose from.

Golf Activity Holiday in Corfu

Corfu’s main golf course, situated in the stunning Ropa valley, is considered by one of the prettiest courses in Europe. The natural beauty of the landscape has been blended in with the design of the course to create some challenging and rewarding golfing greens. Suitable for beginners and advanced golfers, you will find the surroundings of this course absolutely idyllic, with chances to see various species of animals and birds. The course is excellent in the summer, with a cooling sea breeze that keeps conditions on the course perfect. The Ropa valley is also within very easy driving distance from most resorts, as it is located in the centre of the island on the west coast. An all day 18-hole green fee will cost you around 90 Euros, but the course is heavily discounted if you play for more than one day. One very good way of keeping costs down is to take out a holiday package; pay 220 Euros for a weekly green fee at peak season. If you stay at the official golf course hotel you can also get a heavy discount on green fees. During low season you can pay as little as 54 Euros p/p p/n for a double room, buffet breakfast and all day green fee.

Sailing Activity Holiday in Corfu

Corfu is surrounded by both the magnificent Ionian Sea and a number of little islands. It therefore makes the perfect choice for a sailing holiday, during which you can explore, relax and absorb the Grecian history and culture. The waters are generally calm and sheltered and you can take your time to experience some of the beautiful sights this part of the world has to offer. Either rock up to a little island village brimming with life and fantastic cuisine, or choose a little secluded bay. There are a number of companies that hire out yachts just for this purpose and you can choose between manning the boat yourself, or, if you have no sailing experience, take a skippered yacht charter and pick their local knowledge. Prices vary depending on whether it is high or low season and on the size and type of yacht you hire. However, we have seen some fantastically cheap prices, such as 300 Euros p/p for a group of 6 people. Many companies will provide you with a UK professionally trained skipper, so you should have no worries about your safety or the safety of the boat when sailing in Corfu.

Couples Holiday in Corfu

Corfu makes an excellent couples destination; with its beautiful weather and lush green landscape, it is the perfect retreat for couples looking for a romantic break. The coastline of the island is covered in soft sandy beaches, many of which have secluded coves, sheltered by rocky hills, where you can enjoy some peace and seclusion. There are some traditional and pretty villages to visit all over Corfu which will give you a taste of its historic past. Boat trips around the island are also extremely popular and you can enjoy a day trip to the surrounding Ionian islands. Corfu Town itself is also considered a romantic destination, with its narrow winding streets and pretty architecture and courtyards. Enjoy the intimacy of a cosy Corfiot taverna where you can sample some delicious Greek cuisine, or inject some culture into your getaway with an amble around some of the town’s unusual museums. For couples who want to break away from a beach/sightseeing holiday, you will also find a wide range of water sports available around the island. Or, if you fancy a night on the town, take a trip to vibrant Sidari where there are a great range of clubs and bars.

Scuba Diving Activity Holiday in Corfu

A Scuba diving holiday in Corfu can be an exciting and rewarding experience, both for beginners and experienced divers. With its beautiful rocky coastline that descends beneath the clear and warm Ionian Sea, you will discover that there is a lot more to this stunning Greek island beneath the waves. Take your chance to see magnificent underwater creatures including, moray eels, octopus, scorpion fish, swordfish, tuna, sponges and coral, anemones and pena noblilis. See if you can find the shy red shrimp, and keep a lookout for parrotfish, damselfish and peacock wrasse. The diving season runs from May to October and there are a number of diving packages to choose between depending on your level of experience. As a general guide, you should be looking to pay 230 Euros for a week’s dives and dive pack. You can also take lessons, with courses costing around 200 Euros for three days, including equipment. With great extras, such as underwater video cameras which can be rented, you can also take your underwater discoveries home with you.

Hiking Activity Holiday in Corfu

Corfu is greener and more mountainous than many of its sister isles. A hiking holiday in Corfu can therefore be a very interesting and enjoyable experience, with some stunning views and countryside to see. There are a number of popular hiking trails that will take you off the beaten track where you can explore traditional Corfiot villages and discover parts of the countryside other tourists will not come across. Popular routes include a hike from Garitsa Bay which will take you up to the Kanoni peninsula where you can see the ancient Temple of Hera Akraia, the Temple of Kardaki and the Temple of Artemis, all of which were built between 580 and 590 BC. Another lovely route will take you from Messongi village up to Chlomos village where the views are breathtaking and the flora and fauna beautiful. If you are feeling very ambitious you can hike up to Mount Pantocrator which is over 900 metres above sea level. You will feel an enormous sense of achievement upon climbing this one – but you will also be rewarded with a view that is truly spectacular. If you are interested in a hiking or rambling holiday in Corfu, the guides at your resort should be able to tell you where to book. If you fancy exploring on your own, we would highly recommend you take a good map and choose a proper hiking trail.